THE JURIDICAL AMBIGUITY SURROUNDING UNILATERAL SANCTIONS IN INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS

Abstract

The increasing use of unilateral sanctions by sovereign states, particularly by major actors like the United States and the European Union, has raised concerns about their legality and potential impact on international peace and security. This article delves into the complex landscape of unilateral sanctions, which are imposed without authorization from international organizations or clear boundaries in international law. As of 2022, numerous countries and entities have been targeted by such sanctions, reflecting their growing popularity as a tool of foreign policy. This study critically examines the legal dimensions of unilateral sanctions, highlighting their ambiguous status within international law. Unlike conventional international agreements and treaties, sanctions lack a precise definition and a comprehensive legal framework. This legal vacuum poses significant challenges to ensuring accountability and maintaining global stability